Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening. It occurs when there is a severe lack of insulin in the body, which means the body cant use sugar for energy and starts to use fat instead. This causes a buildup of acids in the bloodstream called ketones. If left untreated, the buildup can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be fatal.
Symptoms of DKA include:
- Being very thirsty
- Urinating a lot more than usual
- Fast, deep breathing
- Dry skin and mouth
- Flushed face
- Fruity-smelling breath
- Headache
- Muscle stiffness or aches
- Being very tired
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain
DKA is most common among people with type 1 diabetes, but it can also occur in people with type 2 diabetes. Causes of DKA include high blood sugar levels caused by illness, missing insulin shots, a clogged insulin pump, or the wrong insulin dose, heart attack or stroke, physical injury, alcohol or drug use, and certain medicines.
Treatment for DKA usually takes place in the hospital and involves insulin therapy, fluids, and electrolytes. To prevent DKA, it is important to check blood sugar levels often, keep blood sugar levels in the target range, take medicines as prescribed, and talk to a doctor about adjusting insulin based on what you eat, how much you exercise, and how you feel.
